In Memory of Maria Durkee(1954 - 2015)

Our beloved sister, Maria Perez Durkee, ascended into the spiritual world on June 1, 2015.  Maria was born on October 5, 1954 in Beeville, TX to Juan and Matilda Casa Perez. Maria met True Parents and joined the Unification Church in November of 1979. She received the Marriage Blessing as part of the 30,000 Couples’ Marriage Blessing Ceremony in August of 1992 with Brian Durkee. She is survived by her husband, Brian, their four children, Jessie Perez, Justin Durkee, Stephanie Liganad and Alexander Durkee, and her grandson, Brandon.

Maria and her family had previously lived in Islesboro, Maine, Bayou la Batre, Alabama, and Jacksonville, Florida where Maria resided until she ascended on June 1, 2015. Maria worked for a while in New York City, participated in evangelistic activities, supported ACLC, and was involved in various youth projects to help others feel the love of Heavenly Parent and True Parents. She supported many ministers and churches to receive the Marriage Blessing.

Maria had a generous heart to welcome guests into her home. In 1994, her family lived in a house that was previously a church building. When a traveling fundraising team of Unificationists came to the building, assuming it was still a church; she welcomed them and invited them to stay with her family.

In March of 2008, Maria developed a mysterious illness that was later identified as a rare virus. After over 20 surgeries and a leg amputation, she continued to support and encourage people around her. She was constantly telling the ICU staff that they were working too hard and she would repay their kindness by doing their laundry when she got better. In 2009, she entered San Jose Health & Rehabilitation Nursing Home, where she continued in her pattern of serving others until her ascension on June 1.

Let us support Maria and her family during her victorious ascension into the spiritual world. 

Seonghwa Ceremony

The Seonghwa ceremony will take place in Jacksonville, FL on Thursday, June 4, 2015 at 11 a.m.

Donations in Loving Memory of Maria Durkee

To support the family and contribute to funeral expenses, donations are welcome through the following:
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